Okash Loan App No Longer Available: What Happened and 5 Great Alternatives for 2025

If you’ve been using the Okash loan app, you might have noticed it’s no longer accessible. This has left many Kenyans searching for answers and reliable alternatives. In this article, we’ll uncover why Okash is no longer available, what it means for borrowers, and share 5 excellent loan apps you can use in 2025.

Why Did Okash Disappear?

Okash was once a go-to app for quick loans in Kenya, offering convenient loans through M-Pesa. However, the app has since been removed from the Google Play Store, leaving users in the dark. Here’s what likely led to its shutdown:

1. Regulatory Crackdown: The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has been tightening rules on digital loan apps to protect users from high-interest rates and unfair practices. Okash, like many others, may have failed to meet these stricter requirements.
2. Tough Competition: The mobile lending market in Kenya is packed with apps like Branch, Tala, and M-Shwari. Okash may have struggled to keep up with the competition, losing its user base over time.
3. User Complaints: Some borrowers reported issues like hidden fees, high-interest rates, and poor customer service. These negative experiences likely hurt Okash’s reputation.
4. Operational Challenges: Running a mobile loan app requires significant resources, including technology and customer support. Okash may have faced internal challenges that made it unsustainable to continue.

5 Reliable Loan Apps to Replace Okash

If you’re looking for a trustworthy online loan app in Kenya, here are five great options to consider in 2025:

1. Branch
   Branch is a leading mobile loan app in Kenya, offering loans of up to KES 70,000. It uses your phone data to assess your creditworthiness, making the application process quick and easy.
2. Tala
   Tala is another trusted instant loan app that provides loans ranging from KES 500 to KES 50,000. It analyzes your financial behavior to offer personalized loan options.
3. Zenka
   Zenka is perfect for small, quick loans. You can borrow up to KES 20,000 and repay within 30 days. Plus, it helps you build your credit score over time.
4. M-Shwari
   M-Shwari, a product of Safaricom and NCBA Bank, is one of the most trusted M-Pesa loan apps. It offers loans from KES 100 to KES 50,000, making it a reliable choice for many.
5. Fuliza
   Fuliza, offered by Safaricom, allows you to complete M-Pesa transactions even when you have insufficient funds. It’s a great option for short-term needs.

How to Pick the Right Loan App

With so many mobile lending apps in Kenya, it’s important to choose one that suits your needs. Here are some tips to help you decide:

• Compare Interest Rates: Look for apps with fair and transparent rates.
• Check Repayment Terms: Ensure the repayment period works for your budget.
• Read User Reviews: Feedback from other borrowers can reveal a lot about an app’s reliability.
• Verify Licensing: Always choose apps licensed by the CBK to avoid scams.

Final Thoughts

The discontinuation of the Okash loan app may have come as a surprise, but it’s not the end of the road for borrowers. There are many best loan apps in Kenya that offer similar or even better services. Whether you need a small emergency loan or a larger amount, apps like Branch, Tala, Zenka, M-Shwari, and Fuliza are excellent alternatives.

Remember, borrowing money is a serious responsibility. Always read the terms carefully, borrow only what you need, and ensure you can repay on time. By choosing the right digital loan app, you can meet your financial needs without stress.